Winnipeg police, RCMP launch holiday check-stop program

Winnipeg police and RCMP officers are ramping up their presence on Manitoba roads for the holiday season.

The Winnipeg Police Service and Manitoba RCMP launched their annual check-stop programs Monday in an effort to curb drunk driving.

Winnipeg police said drivers can expect to see an increased officer presence on roadways for the remainder of the holiday season. Officers will focus on areas where alcohol is served, like bars, restaurants, Christmas parties and socials.

Police said impaired driving is the number one criminal cause of death in Canada.

Both the RCMP and Winnipeg police are asking anyone who suspects a driver is impaired to call 911 or local law enforcement immediately.

In 2012, 84 people died in car crashes in Manitoba. Of those, 39 were attributed to drunk driving.

RCMP said they will focus their campaign not only on drunk drivers but those speeding, using cellphones or not wearing seatbelts.

In 2011, RCMP checked over 20,000 vehicles and charged 141 people with impaired driving offences during the holiday season.

Operation Red Nose, a service that provides rides home in callers’ own cars, kicked off in the city Nov. 25.